This Grilled Corn Chowder is a comforting and flavorful dish, combining the smoky essence of grilled corn with the creamy texture of potato and milk. It’s an ideal choice for any meal, whether you’re craving something light yet filling or looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening.
The addition of cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice at the end brings a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the soup. You can also play with the garnishes to add even more texture and flavor – try a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese for an extra indulgent touch!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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6 ears of corn, husked
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 small onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 large potato, peeled and diced
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3 cups chicken stock
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1 cup milk
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Directions:
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is charred and tender.
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Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob.
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In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
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Add the diced potato to the pot and stir for 2 minutes.
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Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the potato is tender.
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Add the grilled corn kernels to the pot along with the milk and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
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Bring the chowder to a gentle simmer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice just before serving.
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Serve hot with optional garnishes like additional cilantro or a dollop of sour cream.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Benefits of Grilling the Corn
One of the standout features of Grilled Corn Chowder is the technique used to prepare the corn. Grilling the corn not only intensifies its natural sweetness but also gives it a subtle smoky flavor that makes this dish truly special. Grilled corn has a delightful texture, with slightly crisp kernels that bring a satisfying bite to the chowder. By grilling the corn, you also elevate the overall flavor profile of the soup, creating a more complex and layered taste that can’t be replicated by simply boiling the corn.
Grilling corn is simple yet effective. The direct heat from the grill caramelizes the sugars in the corn, producing those beautiful grill marks that not only look appealing but also impart a deeper, richer flavor. Whether you’re using fresh corn during the summer or frozen corn during the winter, grilling adds an unmistakable smoky essence that transforms the chowder into a gourmet experience.
The Creamy Texture of the Chowder
The creamy texture of this Grilled Corn Chowder is what makes it a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in any season. With the addition of milk and heavy cream, the soup becomes velvety smooth, enveloping the smoky corn and tender potatoes in a rich, satisfying base. The creaminess balances the bold flavors of the grilled corn and complements the other ingredients, creating a well-rounded dish.
To achieve the perfect creamy texture, it’s important to let the chowder simmer for a few extra minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the cream to thicken slightly. The combination of potatoes and dairy in this recipe ensures that the chowder has a rich mouthfeel without being too heavy. The creamy consistency also helps bring out the sweetness of the corn and adds a layer of indulgence to every spoonful.
Customizing the Recipe to Your Taste
One of the best aspects of Grilled Corn Chowder is its versatility. While this recipe uses a basic combination of ingredients, it can easily be customized to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. For example, if you prefer a lighter version of the soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with a lower-fat option, such as half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Similarly, if you prefer a spicier soup, you can add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give it an extra kick.
Additionally, this chowder can be made vegetarian or vegan by swapping the chicken stock for vegetable broth and omitting the cream or using a plant-based substitute. If you enjoy extra texture in your soup, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini. These additions can enhance the soup’s flavor and create a more colorful and diverse dish. This adaptability ensures that Grilled Corn Chowder can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of dietary preferences.
Perfect Pairings for Grilled Corn Chowder
While Grilled Corn Chowder is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the dining experience. For a light and refreshing contrast, serve the chowder with a crisp salad made of mixed greens, avocado, and a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the rich creaminess of the chowder, making for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
For those craving a heartier meal, consider pairing the chowder with a warm, crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches. The buttery, golden crust of the bread or the melty, gooey cheese perfectly complements the smooth and velvety texture of the chowder. A side of roasted vegetables can also pair beautifully with the smoky flavors of the grilled corn, adding more variety to your meal.
If you’re serving the chowder at a gathering or dinner party, consider offering a few different topping options for your guests to personalize their bowls. Crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or a squeeze of lime can all enhance the flavors of the chowder and allow everyone to add their own twist to the dish.
Health Benefits of Grilled Corn Chowder
Grilled Corn Chowder isn’t just delicious; it also offers several health benefits. Corn, the main ingredient in this dish, is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system. It’s also packed with antioxidants, including lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health. Potatoes, another key ingredient, are an excellent source of potassium, which helps maintain proper muscle function and heart health.
Furthermore, by using fresh ingredients like grilled corn, potatoes, and vegetables, this chowder is naturally lower in processed ingredients compared to store-bought soups. The addition of cilantro, lime juice, and other fresh herbs brings added nutritional benefits, such as vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.
While the creamy base does provide some calories, it’s important to remember that this chowder is a wholesome dish when enjoyed in moderation. You can always adjust the cream content to make it a lighter option without sacrificing flavor, ensuring that it remains a healthy choice for any occasion.
Why Grilled Corn Chowder is a Crowd-Pleaser
Grilled Corn Chowder is the perfect dish to serve to guests or family members. Its comforting and flavorful nature appeals to a wide range of palates, and it’s easy to make in large batches for gatherings or special occasions. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a holiday meal, or a summer barbecue, this chowder will always impress.
The combination of grilled corn, creamy potatoes, and fresh herbs creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated. Its smoky undertones and velvety texture make it stand out from traditional soups and chowders. Plus, the fact that it can be customized for various dietary preferences ensures that everyone can enjoy it, regardless of their food restrictions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Grilled Corn Chowder is a rich, flavorful dish that blends the smoky, sweet taste of grilled corn with a creamy base to create a satisfying and versatile soup. Its adaptability, ease of preparation, and ability to cater to different dietary needs make it a fantastic addition to any recipe collection. Whether you’re looking for a warm, comforting meal during the colder months or a flavorful dish for a summer dinner, this chowder is the perfect choice. Add it to your weekly meal rotation, and watch as it becomes a favorite in your home for years to come.
Enjoy this dish with your favorite side, top it with your favorite garnishes, and let the smoky, creamy goodness of Grilled Corn Chowder shine!